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Cook County panel approves resolution to form Youth Advisory Council and formalize youth engagement
Summary
The county’s Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee unanimously approved a substitute resolution directing development of a youth engagement plan and a 20-member Youth Council to convene in 2027 to advise county policy on public safety, youth justice, economic development, health and other issues.
The Legislation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee voted to approve a resolution directing creation of a Cook County Youth Council and a formal youth engagement plan, with the council intended to convene in 2027 and include 20 members ages 14–21 drawn from Chicago neighborhoods and suburban districts.
Vice Chair Lowery, who sponsored the measure, told the committee the council and engagement plan will give young people a sustained role in shaping policy on issues including public safety, youth justice reform, economic and community development, health services and environmental sustainability. “We need to build a setting where our youth across Cook County can share their common goals while better understanding their differences,” Lowery said.
In discussion, Commissioner Degnan pressed for clarity on how technology and representation would be addressed. Degnan suggested the council weigh in on technology-related harms such as cyberbullying and asked whether membership would ensure geographic representation from each commissioner district. Lowery said the plan envisions true district representation and will be developed with input from a third-party convener and the Board to ensure inclusivity.
Commissioners also proposed recruiting from existing internship and apprenticeship programs to broaden participation; Commissioner Miller asked to be added as a cosponsor and suggested including county interns as mentors. Lowery said the administration has held preliminary discussions with potential partners and intends a measured rollout designed to be sustainable.
The committee accepted a substitute version of the resolution and approved the item by roll call, 14 ayes and 3 excused. Lowery said the inaugural council will be selected after the youth engagement plan is finalized and urged follow-up meetings to work through selection criteria and operational details.
The committee’s action sends the substitute resolution to the full board for finalization and implementation planning ahead of the council’s planned 2027 launch.
